Conservationists and environmentalists have struggled through the years with the question of how to inspire policy change and public opinion. The likes of Sir David Attenborough have taught us that imagery and connecting to the natural world are powerful tools in evoking empathy in our policy makers and inspire real, lasting change.

This webinar, presented by acclaimed animal photographer Tim Flach, will discuss his body of work, particularly in context of what depictions of animals can most powerfully connect us with them and evoke empathy, thereby lead to possible conservation actions.

Flach has always been fascinated why certain images have emerged and what they have in common. In this talk he will explore perceptual theories around luminance and colour, left gaze bias, and composition.

Guest speaker

Tim Flach is an animal photographer with an interest in the way humans shape animals and shape their meaning while exploring the role of imagery in fostering an emotional connection. Bringing to life the complexity of the animal kingdom, his work ranges widely across species, united by a distinctive stylisation reflecting an interest in how we better connect people to the natural world.

He has four major bodies of work concerning different subjects: Equus (2008) focusing on the horse, Dogs Gods (2010) on canines, More Than Human (2012) a broad exploration of the world’s species, and Endangered (2017) a powerful document of species on the edge of extinction. He has published five books; Endangered (2017), Evolution (2013), More than Human, (2012), Dogs Gods (2010) and Equus (2008).

Flach is an Honorary Fellow of the Royal Photographic Society, and was awarded an Honorary Doctorate from University of the Arts London in 2013. He lives and works in London with his wife and son.